Method and system for component wear monitoring

Abstract

A monitoring system includes a fastener. A sensor is coupled to the fastener. A circuit board is electrically coupled to the sensor. An antenna electrically coupled to the circuit board.

What is claimed is: 
     
       1. A roller condition monitor, comprising:
 a frame coupled to an inside of a roller, where the roller comprising an idler roller; 
 a circuit board assembly disposed in the frame; 
 a sensor coupled to the circuit board assembly, the sensor adapted to monitor parameters associated with wear of the roller; 
 a recessed antenna electrically coupled to the circuit board assembly and extending rearwardly from the frame, the recessed antenna being received into a slot formed in an inner surface of the roller; and 
 a power source electrically coupled to the recessed antenna. 
 
     
     
       2. The roller condition monitor of  claim 1 , wherein the sensor is at least one of a vibration sensor, a temperature sensor, an accelerometer, or a strain gauge. 
     
     
       3. The roller condition monitor of  claim 1 , comprising at least two recessed antennas. 
     
     
       4. The roller condition monitor of  claim 1 , wherein the power source is a battery. 
     
     
       5. The roller condition monitor of  claim 1 , wherein temperature is monitored in an effort to diagnose failing components. 
     
     
       6. The roller condition monitor of  claim 1 , wherein vibration is monitored in an effort to diagnose failing components. 
     
     
       7. The roller condition monitor of  claim 1 , wherein gyration rates are monitored in an effort to diagnose failing components. 
     
     
       8. The roller condition monitor of  claim 1 , wherein the roller condition monitor is modular. 
     
     
       9. The roller condition monitor of  claim 8 , wherein the roller condition monitor may be inserted or removed from the roller.